Paul’s declaration that he considers everything else as garbage underscores the depth of his commitment to Christ. It is a call to re-evaluate our own lives, to prioritize spiritual growth over material success, and to find true fulfillment in the knowledge and love of Jesus.

•Paul’s Former Life and Credentials (Philippians 3:4-6): Paul begins by outlining his impressive background within Judaism. He was circumcised on the eighth day, of the people of Israel, of the tribe of Benjamin, a Hebrew of Hebrews; in regard to the law, a Pharisee; as for zeal, persecuting the church; as for legalistic righteousness, faultless. This demonstrates that by worldly standards, Paul had achieved significant status and righteousness.

•The Radical Shift in Perspective (Philippians 3:7-8): The turning point comes in verses 7 and 8. Paul declares, “But whatever were gains for me I now consider loss for the sake of Christ. What is more, I consider everything a loss because of the surpassing worth of knowing Christ Jesus my Lord, for whose sake I have lost all things. I consider them garbage, that I may gain Christ.” This highlights the transformative power of encountering Christ. Everything Paul once valued he now considers worthless compared to the value of knowing Christ.

•Gaining Christ and Righteousness Through Faith (Philippians 3:9): Paul clarifies that his desire is to “be found in him, not having a righteousness of my own that comes from the law, but that which is through faith in Christ—the righteousness that comes from God on the basis of faith.” This is a core theological point: righteousness is not earned through works of the law but received through faith in Jesus Christ. This aligns with the overarching theme of finding true worth not in ourselves but in God’s grace.

•Imitating Paul’s Example (Philippians 3:17-21): Paul calls on others to imitate his example and to be mindful of those who live contrary to the gospel of Christ. He reminds believers that their citizenship is in heaven, from which they eagerly await a Savior, the Lord Jesus Christ, who will transform their lowly bodies so that they will be like his glorious body.

Philippians 3:9 presents a pivotal theological insight: righteousness is not achieved through adherence to the law but is granted through faith in Christ. This righteousness, which comes from God, is a gift received by trusting in Jesus. It emphasizes the grace-based nature of salvation, where our standing before God is not earned by our deeds but is a result of our faith in His Son.

In Philippians 3:10-11, Paul expresses an intense longing to know Christ more intimately. This desire goes beyond mere intellectual understanding; it involves experiencing the power of His resurrection and sharing in His sufferings. Paul’s yearning reflects a deep spiritual aspiration to be united with Christ in every aspect of life, even to the point of embracing suffering for the sake of spiritual growth and ultimate resurrection.